Couples trying to conceive for more than a year without success may be diagnosed with infertility. One type of infertility that affects many couples is unexplained infertility. It refers to situations where no specific cause can be identified for the inability to conceive. Here are some facts about unexplained infertility:
Lifestyle Can Play a Role
Diet, exercise, and sleep can affect the reproductive health of both men and women. Modifying lifestyle habits can be an excellent starting point for women diagnosed with unexplained infertility. Women struggling with fertility issues can choose to manage their weight, quit smoking, and reduce alcohol intake. Staying physically active and getting quality sleep could help promote optimal reproductive function.
Age Is a Factor
Women are born with a finite number of eggs, which decrease in number as they age. The quality of eggs also tends to decline as women age, which affects their chances of fertilization and subsequent pregnancy. When a woman reaches a certain age, her fertility starts to decline dramatically. Advanced age can also increase the risk of pregnancy complications, such as developmental problems, miscarriage, and various medical conditions.
Stress Can Affect Fertility
Women diagnosed with unexplained infertility are likely under emotional and psychological stress, which can negatively impact conception. Stressful situations can lead to hormonal imbalance, affecting ovulation and menstrual cycles and infertility.
One can manage stress through mindfulness practices such as yoga and meditation. Women diagnosed with unexplained infertility can benefit from counselling services to help them cope with infertility’s emotional challenges.
Chemical Exposure May Play a Role
Women with higher levels of certain chemicals in their blood may be more likely to experience infertility. These chemicals are in everyday products such as plastics, food packaging, and personal care products.
Treatment Options Are Available
Due to advancements in technology and medical research, several different treatment options are available to help women overcome unexplained infertility. They include:
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Intrauterine Insemination
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is a procedure where specialists insert the sperm into the uterus directly. It can be a simple and non-invasive procedure often used as a first-line treatment for unexplained infertility. During the insemination, the sperm is washed and concentrated. This can help increase its chances of hitting the egg when released.
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In Vitro Fertilization
The in vitro process involves fertilizing the egg in a laboratory and implanting a viable embryo into the woman’s uterus. IVF may be an excellent option for women who cannot conceive naturally or through IUI. The process is an invasive one and requires close follow-up by fertility experts.
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Ovulation Induction
The ovulation induction method involves the use of fertility medications to stimulate the production of eggs by the ovaries. In some cases, ovulation induction can increase the likelihood of conception in couples affected by infertility.
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Surrogacy
Surrogacy is an option that involves implanting an embryo developed through IVF into a surrogate’s uterus. This option is ideal for women who cannot carry a pregnancy to term. In some cases, surrogacy can be an excellent option for couples who face fertility problems.
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Donor Eggs
Using donor eggs involves using eggs donated by another woman for fertilization with sperm. The fertilized egg is implanted into the woman’s uterus, potentially resulting in pregnancy. It is often used by older women or women with severely compromised fertility.
Visit a Doctor to Learn About Unexplained Infertility
Unexplained infertility can be a challenging diagnosis, both emotionally and physically. There are treatments available that may help to increase someone’s chances of conceiving. Couples who have been trying to conceive for over a year can consider speaking with a doctor about different options, including potential fertility treatments. Couples may overcome infertility and start a family with the right support and guidance.